Imaging-based techniques for ablation zone definition and volumetry after laser interstitial thermal therapy (LITT) for intracranial lesions: a systematic review

To evaluate specific imaging-based methods for defining and measuring the ablation zone in patients undergoing LITT for intracranial lesions.

LITT is effective for treating deep-seated intracranial lesions, with implications for patient prognosis.
Extent of ablation (EOA) correlates with improved prognosis in some studies, highlighting the importance of accurate measurement.
Accurate delineation of the ablation volume is challenging, particularly in high-grade gliomas, which may impact treatment outcomes.

The review highlights the need for standardized imaging-based outcome measures to accurately assess ablation zones post-LITT.

Lack of standardized methods for ablation zone definition, which complicates comparisons across studies and clinical application.
Exclusion of studies without detailed methodological descriptions, potentially limiting the breadth of evidence considered.

Standardization of imaging techniques for ablation zone assessment is crucial for improving outcomes and comparability of results in LITT.